- Cape Girardeau
The best camping near Cape Girardeau with wildlife watching
98% (988) • 50 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau
Wine Trail Wilderness
1. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(668)
25mi from Cape Girardeau · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa".
Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest.
It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy.
Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes.
We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit.
We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
The Art Farm
2. The Art Farm
98%
(201)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides.
Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings.
Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive)
We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all.
Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations.
LGBTQ friendly. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Ridge Camping Private
3. Ridge Camping Private
100%
(8)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$10
/ night
Shawnee National Forest
4. Shawnee National Forest
94%
(27)
172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail of Tears State Forest
5. Trail of Tears State Forest
14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rock Ridge
6. Rock Ridge
38mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
This site is secluded and will have you surrounded with trees and the relaxing sound of nature. Listen to the birds and other wildlife that may go by. The terrain around is rocky. There are trails to follow for hiking. Enjoy time out in nature with your family or out by yourself for a great getaway.
Pets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
7. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
99%
(63)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 20 sites · RVs
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek.
It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres.
Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots.
It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property.
Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Tall Tree Lake
8. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 62 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Saco Valley Farm, LLC
9. Saco Valley Farm, LLC
98%
(26)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites · Tents
Camp, Swim, BBQ, wade the creek, enjoy the campfire!
Primitive Camping. Very Private. Water is cool and clear.
Open to the stars. A great place to commune with nature, or enjoy some peace and quiet!
12 mile creek runs directly through our property.
Shallow and deep all throughout. Great for wading, swimming, floating, kayaking. Great small mouth fishing! We are approximately one mile by water from the St. Francois River. We have kayaked down the creek to the river for many years.
The farm is very rural. We are 16 miles to the closest gas station, and 25 miles to town. There is no internet. Cell phone service is spotty at best.
Currently a working farm, we have 2 high tunnels on the property behind the house, and our original market garden.
Across the creek we are finishing up our 5 acre agroforestry planting. 3 acres of elderberries and 2 acres of blackberries.
28 acres, 3 on one side, and 25 on the other.
The farm is located approximately 2 hours south of St. Louis.
Fredericktown is 30 mins away. Food, Drinks, Golf, and Lalo's Mexican Restaurant! There are a ton of local antique shops, and outdoor activities.
Local places of interest:
Amidon
Arcadia Valley
Black River
Bonne Terre Mine
Elephant Rocks
Johnson Shut Ins
Mill Stream Gardens
One Nation Paintball Park
Sam A. Baker State Park
Saco Valley Farmstand
Sherpher Mountain Bike Park
Silvermines
Taum Sauk Mountain
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$25
/ night
Giant City State Park
10. Giant City State Park
65 sites · Makanda, Illinois
Sandstone and forest converge for fantastic camping, climbing, and hiking in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
11. Lake Murphysboro State Park
61 sites · Harrison, Illinois
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferne Clyffe State Park
12. Ferne Clyffe State Park
100%
(1)
84 sites · Goreville, Illinois
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mark Twain National Forest
13. Mark Twain National Forest
88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Robyn M.’s Land
14. Robyn M.’s Land
89%
(9)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Monarch Hill Vineyard
15. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.
Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.
The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.
We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit!
*** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse ***
We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
16. Little Texas Farm and Lodge
100%
(3)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging
Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$160
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
17. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
We have five campsites in 135 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch. Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly). If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around!
This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.
The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!
We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$24
/ night
Red Gate Farm, LLC
18. Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp!
Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment!
If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Pond Ridge Adventure
19. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
30mi from Cape Girardeau · 35 sites · Tents
We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animals.There are several lakes just 15 minutes away kinkade spillway is a popular place to hike and swim and little Grand Canyon is an awesome spot
Learn more about this land:
Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$30
/ night
Broken Paddle Lake
20. Broken Paddle Lake
100%
(5)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner.
There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV.
Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
98% (988) • 50 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Girardeau
Wine Trail Wilderness
1. Wine Trail Wilderness
100%
(668)
25mi from Cape Girardeau · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
The Shawnee National Forest surrounds us, accessible only by wandering roads, passing over creeks and alongside wineries. The trip is worth the beautiful drive, eventually arriving at "The Villa".
Our home looks like an Italian villa, appropriately placed between two wineries in the middle of the Shawnee Forest.
It is actually a straw-bale home with supplemental solar energy.
Originally built as a Holistic Healing Center, we have converted it into a comfortable home with great vibes.
We have converted an old grain bin into a "GrainZebo" just outside our home as a fun place to hang out with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the same relaxed feel we get while living out here in the woods, when you come visit.
We will be happy to help you feel at home out here. We love sharing the Shawnee experience and believe all should enjoy this beautiful part of the country. LGBTQ are all welcome and accepted. We welcome all types of campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
The Art Farm
2. The Art Farm
98%
(201)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm is women owned and operated. This 34 acres of rolling farmland, woods and pasture is surrounded by farmland and woodlands on all sides.
Enjoy nature. Watch wildlife. Listen to the birds singing. You will often see deer in the evenings.
Walk or drive to the main residence to enjoy the pool, hot tub and hot outdoor shower. (5 minute walk or 1 minute drive)
We have a few dedicated women's campouts each year, and some art-making workshops, retreats, and quilting weekends, too. Other times we are open and inclusive of all.
Native land of Chickasaw, Quapaw and Osage nations.
LGBTQ friendly. :)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Ridge Camping Private
3. Ridge Camping Private
100%
(8)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
You will hike to your private primitive destination. We ask that you please have an above ground firepit! Explore the property and enjoy a private stay!!!!!!!!!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$10
/ night
Shawnee National Forest
4. Shawnee National Forest
94%
(27)
172 sites · Elizabethtown, Illinois
Welcome to the wilderness in Illinois’ only national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Trail of Tears State Forest
5. Trail of Tears State Forest
14 sites · Alto Pass, Illinois
Hike, hunt, and horseback ride at this conservation area in southwestern Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rock Ridge
6. Rock Ridge
38mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Tent, RV
This site is secluded and will have you surrounded with trees and the relaxing sound of nature. Listen to the birds and other wildlife that may go by. The terrain around is rocky. There are trails to follow for hiking. Enjoy time out in nature with your family or out by yourself for a great getaway.
Pets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
7. Fredrock Waterfront Glampground
99%
(63)
44mi from Cape Girardeau · 20 sites · RVs
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek.
It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres.
Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots.
It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property.
Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Tall Tree Lake
8. Tall Tree Lake
98%
(48)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 62 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a 220 acre family owned and operated campground in the middle of the Shawnee National forest. We love providing a safe, beautiful, peaceful, and central location for people to enjoy our beautiful area. Fishing and hiking are welcomed for all of our guests! Located in the heart of the Shawnee National Forest. Close proximity to Ferne Clyffe State Park, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and only a 10 minute drive from I-24.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
Saco Valley Farm, LLC
9. Saco Valley Farm, LLC
98%
(26)
49mi from Cape Girardeau · 4 sites · Tents
Camp, Swim, BBQ, wade the creek, enjoy the campfire!
Primitive Camping. Very Private. Water is cool and clear.
Open to the stars. A great place to commune with nature, or enjoy some peace and quiet!
12 mile creek runs directly through our property.
Shallow and deep all throughout. Great for wading, swimming, floating, kayaking. Great small mouth fishing! We are approximately one mile by water from the St. Francois River. We have kayaked down the creek to the river for many years.
The farm is very rural. We are 16 miles to the closest gas station, and 25 miles to town. There is no internet. Cell phone service is spotty at best.
Currently a working farm, we have 2 high tunnels on the property behind the house, and our original market garden.
Across the creek we are finishing up our 5 acre agroforestry planting. 3 acres of elderberries and 2 acres of blackberries.
28 acres, 3 on one side, and 25 on the other.
The farm is located approximately 2 hours south of St. Louis.
Fredericktown is 30 mins away. Food, Drinks, Golf, and Lalo's Mexican Restaurant! There are a ton of local antique shops, and outdoor activities.
Local places of interest:
Amidon
Arcadia Valley
Black River
Bonne Terre Mine
Elephant Rocks
Johnson Shut Ins
Mill Stream Gardens
One Nation Paintball Park
Sam A. Baker State Park
Saco Valley Farmstand
Sherpher Mountain Bike Park
Silvermines
Taum Sauk Mountain
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$25
/ night
Giant City State Park
10. Giant City State Park
65 sites · Makanda, Illinois
Sandstone and forest converge for fantastic camping, climbing, and hiking in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lake Murphysboro State Park
11. Lake Murphysboro State Park
61 sites · Harrison, Illinois
Camp like a star at this lake and forested wilderness area in southern Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ferne Clyffe State Park
12. Ferne Clyffe State Park
100%
(1)
84 sites · Goreville, Illinois
There's secret treasure to be found here in the Land of Lincoln.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mark Twain National Forest
13. Mark Twain National Forest
88%
(21)
452 sites · Bunker, Missouri
Missouri’s only national forest has 1.5 million acres of wilderness to explore.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Robyn M.’s Land
14. Robyn M.’s Land
89%
(9)
17mi from Cape Girardeau · 81 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Monarch Hill Vineyard
15. Monarch Hill Vineyard
99%
(93)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Monarch Hill! Tucked away in the hills of Ste. Genevieve County, we enjoy watching the sun rise and set over our secluded pastures and vineyards.
Our hilltop sites offer an open area with fire rings and picnic tables, great for groups or social butterflies. These offer well water at the nearby barn for drinking and showering.
The Seclusion sites are private escapes for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature. Take in the chirps of frogs, birds and crickets at these isolated sites.
We offer a complimentary wood basket with every booking, and have additional fire-building supplies available. Be sure to check out our experiences to make the most of your stay, and don't forget to reserve a s'more kit!
*** April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse ***
We are excited to be located in the best viewing path for this year's total eclipse! We will be preparing additional sites as needed for this weekend, so if we are fully booked check back soon or message us to reserve a spot. More information to come as we approach the date.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Little Texas Farm and Lodge
16. Little Texas Farm and Lodge
100%
(3)
47mi from Cape Girardeau · 1 site · Lodging
Located in the Southern Illinois Ozarks, this lodge and 600 acres are part of the Cache River Drainage area, an area recognized internationally as being ecologically unique. The Barn is located atop a limestone bluff; the property includes upland flora, wetland wildlife, row-crop fields, and has access on 2 sides to the Shawnee National Forest. Conveniently located to participate in the natural opportunities of S. Illinois.Learn more about this land:Bring the hot dogs and the beans, but leave the sleeping bag and tent behind. At Little Texas, you will spend your down-time in a 1600 foot, 3 BR, 3 bath lodge located 2/3 mile off the closest gravel road. Little Texas is a place for those who love the isolation of camping but also the amenities of a lodge/home. Full kitchen. Sleeps 8. Step outside for a view of the yard, the working windmill, the fields, trees, and the pond. Test your skill at sorting constellations from the spectacular array of stars. Located in Southernmost Illinois, the property sits on a limestone outcrop of the Ozarks which extend from Arkansas and Missouri across S. Illinois into westernmost Kentucky. Bordered on 2 sides by the 260,000 acre Shawnee National Forest, nature is literally just outside the door. When the hiker sits still, nature comes alive: deer, turkey, raccoons, skunks, beavers, and lots of birds.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$160
/ night
Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
17. Scottish Highland Cattle Ranch
100%
(12)
27mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
We have five campsites in 135 acres of acres of forest and ranch land in our working cattle and sheep ranch. Located in a serene valley in the Ozark Highlands, the Ranch has Sheep, Scottish Highland Cattle, Chickens, Ducks and Great Pyrenees livestock guard dogs (only in the sheep pastures - and they are friendly). If you want to meet our animals and see the farm we are happy to show you around!
This is a unique site located in the Ozark Highlands. Only 45 minutes from Cape Girardeau (a small river town on the Mississippi), and 45 minutes from the Arcadia Valley including Taum Sauk mountain (the highest point in Missouri), Elephant Rocks, the Johnston Shutins, and other beautiful areas in the highlands.
The farm is five minutes from Marble Hill, which is home to the Bollinger County Natural History museum which highlights the only dinosaur bones found in Missouri. The bones were found at a farm in Glennallen (a few minutes from our farm) as well as a great barbeque (Jay’s Restaurant) and a good catfish restaurant (Jers Restaurant). On the way to our farm, feel free to stop at the 1,700 foot deep artesian well to get a cool, refreshing jug of natural artesian well water – the water is free, but you have to bring your own containers!
We are two and a half hours southwest of St. Louis, and two and half hours northwest of Memphis.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$24
/ night
Red Gate Farm, LLC
18. Red Gate Farm, LLC
92%
(12)
46mi from Cape Girardeau · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Red Gate Farm, LLC, a farm with a vision! We previously ran a very successful Hipcamp site at our previous property, but completely relocated and are starting fresh! We purchased 50 acres of GORGEOUS timbered property, with rolling forested hills, several creeks, trees towering over 100 feet tall, and abundant wildlife. It's absolutely perfect for Hipcamp!
Building a new farm (and Hipcamp program) from scratch takes time--years even, but we decided now is as a good a time as any to share our beautiful timber with Hipcampers looking for some peace and privacy. While the site itself will be groomed and set up as listed, the surrounding grass won't be perfectly green yet, there will still be a lot of dead-wood and natural debris around the sites, and trails are a bit rough and uneven. If you can overlook the "rustic" aspects though, and enjoy the beauty of the peace and quiet of just enjoying nature, as it has sat unmanaged for roughly 50 years around the sites, then you are likely to love every moment!
If you desire more adventure than just hanging around and enjoying nature, be sure to check out the additional experiences we offer here on the farm, as well as the entire surrounding area. Southern IL is made up of the Shawnee National Forest and multiple state parks and recreational areas. You can find a wide variety of activities to keep you busy! Even the local towns have much to offer, whether you enjoy fine dining, casual restaurants, antique shopping, or a nice theater production.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Pond Ridge Adventure
19. Pond Ridge Adventure
98%
(33)
30mi from Cape Girardeau · 35 sites · Tents
We have 50 acres located in Southern Illinois 4 miles south of Murphysboro connected to 100 acres of Shawnee National forest.We set up a small family primitive campground for our family to enjoy every evening we ride our utv over from our house and watch the wildlife there are deer turkeys bobcats and many other small animals.There are several lakes just 15 minutes away kinkade spillway is a popular place to hike and swim and little Grand Canyon is an awesome spot
Learn more about this land:
Mostly suitable for Rv with generators and self contained units
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$30
/ night
Broken Paddle Lake
20. Broken Paddle Lake
100%
(5)
36mi from Cape Girardeau · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner.
There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV.
Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Jackie
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We've stayed here several times. Continues getting better. Although the star of the show this time was star-gazing during 65 degree weather the day after Christmas! Thx again Jon for wonderful place to stay.
See more
A
Adam
2 weeks ago
13 ft travel trailer
With pets
Jon and Carla were wonderful hosts. Jon had everything we could want and more! We had a lovely stay. Would definitely book again.
See more
M
Michael
November 2025
18 ft campervan
Darrell and Jeanna were excellent hosts; they were friendly and helpful while also being mindful of the importance of the solitude needed to thoroughly enjoy their beautiful property. We will definitely go back for another visit (or more).
This visit was towards the end of November, so the shower and privy were welcome comforts in the brisk weather, though also invigorating. Fireside relaxation was the primary activity as we watched an impressive variety of birds by the pond. With the lack of light pollution, the stargazing opportunities were a treat. We hope to be back for the wine harvest next year!
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Brie
November 2025
Tent
We had a nice time at Laura’s. Kindly showed us where everything was, was very respectful and we felt very safe there. The cats were adorable too!
See more
S
Sheldon
November 2025
19 ft campervan
Laura’s camp space was great. Perfectly flat for our van and very quiet. We had a lovely evening.
See more
A
Alex
November 2025
Tent
Even if you stay just one night to break up travel (as I did), I highly recommend the Art Farm. The spaciousness of the camp was a delight. I arrived at the property around 9 pm, and Laura graciously showed me a secluded site towards the back of the tract. The nearest camper was far away, and though it was mid-November when I stayed, I could still envision seclusion in a busier season. The land was well-maintained, and Laura offers a variety of camping spots. Paducah was also well worth seeing- a lovely town right along the Ohio River with several cool spots! I’ll be back!
See more
J
James
November 2025
20 ft travel trailer
Great sites and great hosts! John was super helpful and accommodating, taught us how to play bocce ball on the court there, and even helped us with a maintenance issue on my camper. The grainzebo was awesome!!! Can't wait to go back.
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Wilson
November 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Our experience at Wine Trail Wilderness was great despite plunging temperatures this past weekend. The roomy site allowed for our 2 young dogs to zoom around the field and the pavilion and outhouse were experiences of themselves. Jon was a great host and fun to talk to when he was walking his dog Norton. The location between 2 of our favorite wineries was a bonus. The scenery with the fall colors was beautiful to see. We can’t wait to come back. Becky and Wilson
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Frank
November 2025
Tent
It was fantastic camping on Jon’s land he was the perfect host, very attentive and was willing to work with our schedule. It made for a great weekend of climbing at holy boulders… it’s like 15min from the boulders!
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Kyle
November 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
With pets
This is the third time I've stayed at WTW. It was the first time staying in the far away field and we loved it. Jon checked in and would deliver firewood (if needed). I'm sure we will be back!
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Bryson
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Beautiful campground with an awesome host! Will definitely stay again next time we are out this way!
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Elizabeth
November 2025
Tent
I loved camping on Laura's land! Porta-potty, shower, and hot tub are all near the site. It looks quiet, and the view across the field was lovely!
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Molly
October 2025
Tent
With pets
John and Carla were amazing hosts. They lead us to our site on their 4-wheeler, and even gave us a wine opener to borrow after we forgot to bring one. The campsite had everything we needed and was super clean, level, and open yet wooded. They came by to check on us after the first night. We were able to order firewood and wine from them ahead of time so it was at the site when we got there. This was amazing because we are usually trying to find space in the truck for firewood. They also provide ice water in a 5 gallon jug which saved us some packing space. We came with two dogs so we asked for one of their more private sites and they delivered. Didn’t see any other campers the entire weekend. Location is awesome for a variety of activities. I would love to return with my coworkers and this would be a perfect spot for our yearly camping trip. We also noticed lots of materials staged around the property so it seems like they are planning some improvements to their already amazing place.
This wasn’t a problem for us but I wanted to mention as I know it can be a deal breaker for some. There was not a bathroom with running water, just a private privy in one of those little portable tents. It was cleaned and stocked and very much appreciated.
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Samuel
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
The area was very accessible and was set up in a really nice convenient way. Jon met us at the driveway, greeted us with a warm smile and helped us get our water situated. After that he assisted me getting the trailer leveled and ready to go and made sure we had firewood. On Saturday, he came and checked on us and he's an incredible host and this was one of the best trips we had. Being within walking distance of a winery and a very short drive to another one is amazing and it was so quiet. And for the record I've never seen anybody have a better portable toilet outside than at Jon's property (Plus the bocce ball court was amazing and we had a great time playing with some people we met there as well this weekend). Suffice to say, we will definitely come back and visit Jon again and for anybody who may want a really great camping experience there is none better than what Jon provides.
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Travis
October 2025
Tent
With pets
We love WTW! We camp here multiple times a year and it's always well deserving of the best in Illinois title! Everything is taken care of and we just get to setup camp and relax.
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Mimi
October 2025
12 ft campervan
wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back!!
Wine Trail wilderness was perfectly situated on Hickory Ridge Road close to two wineries! It was my first time to the wine trail in Shawnee national Forest and certainly there’s a lot to offer! Looking forward to going back JON was extremely accommodating and his land was ideal For hip camp travelers! Thank you WTW !
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Kari
October 2025
16 ft travel trailer
With pets
I enjoyed the evening on Jon's land. He was very helpful amd the site was beautiful! He had a big jug of ice water ready at the site too! There was a ready fire pit, but I chose not to have a fire since I was exhausted and wanted to sleep and get an early start the next day.
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Valerie
October 2025
28 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very well taken care of campground and Misty and her staff were a delight!
There are so many little hidden spots they have setup to just relax in the woods by the creek. The road noise is noticeable, but the area makes up for it for sure!!!
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Lorie
October 2025
1 night at The Art Farm
Tho cozy cabin was cozy! The place is lovely and peaceful. I enjoyed the fire pit and the millions of stars! I will be back when I can spend a few days.
Laura the host was so friendly and made sure I had everything I needed.
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patrick
October 2025
4 ft pop-up camper
We had a great time camping here. Jon was a great host. Checked on us every day. The campground was private. the other guests were very friendly. The trails nearby were very scenic. Would recommend it to any of my friends. We will camp here again I hope.
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